Finnish Dinner Date 2027 offers international singles a chance to enjoy a fully funded four-day trip to Finland. Visit Finland has launched this special cultural experience to introduce visitors to Finnish food, local traditions, and meaningful connections.
The organizer will select 16 international participants for two group dinner experiences in Helsinki and Tampere. Selected guests will enjoy a hosted travel itinerary, cultural activities, and a special Finnish dinner alongside local singles.
Unlike a traditional scholarship or fellowship, this opportunity does not require university enrollment or an academic research proposal. Instead, applicants must complete a creative video challenge and submit an online application.
Applications close on 10 November 2026 at 11:59 AM Finnish time (EET).
Finnish Dinner Date 2027 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Opportunity | Finnish Dinner Date |
| Organizer | Visit Finland / Business Finland |
| Destination | Finland |
| Cities | Helsinki and Tampere |
| Program type | Cultural travel and culinary experience |
| Funding | All-expenses-paid hosted trip |
| Duration | 4 days |
| Experience period | 9–19 February 2027 |
| International participants | 16 |
| Selection | 8 international guests per dinner experience |
| Application method | Video challenge and online form |
| Application language | English |
| Application deadline | 10 November 2026 |
| Deadline time | 11:59 AM EET (UTC+2) |
| Selection announcement | 1 December 2026 |
| Official website | https://www.visitfinland.com/en/have-some-finnish/ |
What Is the Finnish Dinner Date?
The Finnish Dinner Date is a special tourism campaign organized by Visit Finland.
Its purpose is to introduce international visitors to Finnish cuisine and culture through a shared dining experience.
The program brings together selected international singles and local Finnish participants.
Rather than arranging individual romantic dates, the organizer hosts group dinners in a relaxed social setting.
Participants can discover Finnish food, explore local attractions, and meet people from different backgrounds.
The experience also forms part of Visit Finland’s wider effort to introduce international travelers to the country’s regional food traditions.
Who Organizes the Finnish Dinner Date?
Visit Finland is Finland’s official tourism promotion organization.
It operates as part of Business Finland and promotes Finland as an international travel destination.
The organization highlights the country’s nature, cities, culture, food, and travel experiences.
Through the Finnish Dinner Date campaign, Visit Finland aims to introduce travelers to Finnish culinary traditions in a creative way.
The official campaign website provides the application instructions, program details, and frequently asked questions.
Where Will the Experience Take Place?
The organizer has selected two Finnish destinations for the 2027 campaign.
1. Helsinki Region
Helsinki is Finland’s capital and a major cultural destination.
The city offers coastal scenery, restaurants, historic architecture, and modern Nordic experiences.
Participants assigned to the Helsinki experience will explore the region through the organizer’s hosted itinerary.
The visit will conclude with a group dinner featuring Finnish cuisine.
2. Tampere and the Lakeland Region
Tampere is a Finnish city known for its lakeside setting and cultural attractions.
It forms part of the wider Lakeland region, where lakes, forests, and local food traditions shape the visitor experience.
Participants assigned to Tampere will discover regional food and cultural activities.
They will also attend a special group dinner.
Can Applicants Choose Their Destination?
The organizer describes the destination as a surprise for selected participants.
Successful applicants will learn whether they have been matched with Helsinki or Tampere when their participation is confirmed.
Therefore, applicants should not assume they can select their preferred city.
How Many Participants Will Be Selected?
Visit Finland will select 16 international participants.
The organizer will divide them between two culinary experiences.
| Destination | International participants |
|---|---|
| Helsinki | 8 |
| Tampere | 8 |
| Total | 16 |
Each dinner will also include two local Finnish singles.
As a result, participants can meet fellow international travelers and local residents during the experience.
However, selection does not guarantee a romantic match.
The main purpose is to enjoy Finnish culture, cuisine, and social interaction.
What Does the Fully Funded Trip Include?
Visit Finland describes the opportunity as an all-expenses-paid four-day trip.
The official announcement confirms a hosted travel experience with organized activities and dining.
1. Hosted Four-Day Visit
Selected participants receive a four-day experience in Finland.
The organizer arranges a structured itinerary for the visit.
2. Culinary Experiences
Finnish food is the central theme of the campaign.
Participants will discover local dishes and regional food traditions.
The experience culminates in a group dinner featuring one of Finland’s official tasting menus.
3. Cultural Activities
The itinerary includes activities designed to introduce visitors to their destination.
These may involve local attractions, cultural experiences, and opportunities to learn about Finnish traditions.
4. Group Dinner Experience
Participants will join a shared dinner with other selected travelers and local Finnish singles.
The event encourages conversation and cultural exchange.
5. Organized Travel Experience
The campaign advertises an all-expenses-paid hosted trip.
However, applicants should read the official participation terms to confirm the exact arrangements for transportation, accommodation, meals, insurance, and any personal expenses.
The organizer’s general campaign description does not provide a complete itemized financial breakdown.
Who Can Apply?
The campaign targets international singles interested in visiting Finland and experiencing Finnish culture.
It is not a university scholarship.
Therefore, the main application focuses on the applicant’s interest in food, travel, and social experiences rather than academic qualifications.
Relationship Status
The program specifically invites single applicants.
Participants should review the official FAQ for the organizer’s definition of eligibility.
International Applicants
Visit Finland invites applications from international participants.
However, applicants should check the campaign terms for any country-specific eligibility or travel restrictions.
English Communication
Applicants must record their application video in English.
Therefore, they should be able to explain their ideas clearly in English.
Interest in Finnish Culture
Applicants should show genuine curiosity about food, travel, and cultural experiences.
The application challenge gives candidates an opportunity to demonstrate creativity and personality.
Age and Other Conditions
The campaign includes an official FAQ addressing age limits, accessibility, relationship status, and other participation requirements.
Applicants should review those answers and the campaign terms before submitting an application.
Do not assume that an open international campaign has no age or travel restrictions.
Do You Need a University Degree?
No academic qualification is listed as a central requirement in the public campaign instructions.
The Finnish Dinner Date is a cultural tourism opportunity rather than an academic program.
Applicants do not need to prepare a research proposal, academic transcript, or university recommendation letter for the published application challenge.
However, they must satisfy the campaign’s official participation conditions.
How to Apply for Finnish Dinner Date 2027
The application process has two main steps.
Step 1: Create Your Application Video
Applicants must record a short video in English answering the organizer’s question:
“What would you serve on a dinner date, and why?”
The video should explain the applicant’s chosen food and the reason behind it.
This is an opportunity to show creativity, communication skills, and interest in the experience.
For example, applicants can discuss a meaningful dish from their culture, a favorite meal, or a creative dinner idea.
However, they should use their own ideas and avoid copying another applicant’s response.
Step 2: Publish the Video
Upload the video to one of the accepted platforms:
- TikTok
- YouTube
Use the campaign hashtag:
#FinnishDinnerDate
Also tag the official Visit Finland account on the selected platform.
| Platform | Required account tag |
|---|---|
| @ourfinland | |
| TikTok | @visitfinland.com |
| YouTube | @VisitFinland |
Applicants using Instagram or TikTok must make their profiles public so the organizer can view their videos.
However, YouTube applicants may upload their videos as Public or Unlisted.
An unlisted YouTube video allows people with the link to view it without making it publicly searchable.
Step 3: Open the Official Application Form
Visit the official application page:
https://www.visitfinland.com/en/have-some-finnish/apply-dinner-date
Complete the required fields.
Follow the instructions provided by Visit Finland.
Step 4: Add Your Video Link
Copy the link to your Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube video.
Paste it into the relevant field of the official application form.
Make sure the organizer can access the video.
Step 5: Review Your Application
Check that your contact details are correct.
Also confirm that the video link works and that you have followed the campaign instructions.
Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit the completed application before 10 November 2026 at 11:59 AM Finnish time (EET).
Visit Finland states that applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Application Deadline
The official deadline is:
Tuesday, 10 November 2026, at 11:59 AM EET (UTC+2).
This is a morning deadline in Finland, not the end of the day.
Applicants should convert the deadline to their local time zone and submit early.
The organizer will not consider late applications.
Selection and Announcement
Visit Finland will select 16 international participants for the two experiences.
The organizer will contact successful applicants personally.
It also plans to announce the selected participants publicly on 1 December 2026 through its official Instagram and TikTok accounts.
Applicants should monitor their contact details and the official Visit Finland channels after submitting.
However, an application does not guarantee selection.
When Will the Trip Take Place?
The Finnish Dinner Date experiences will take place between 9 and 19 February 2027.
Each selected participant will attend a four-day experience.
However, the organizer has not presented the full date range as one continuous trip for every participant.
The exact travel dates will depend on the assigned destination and final arrangements.
Selected applicants should wait for official confirmation before making independent travel bookings.
What Will Participants Experience?
Finnish Food Culture
The campaign focuses on regional Finnish cuisine.
Finnish food traditions use ingredients such as fish, berries, mushrooms, grains, and seasonal produce.
The organizer has developed official tasting menus that highlight regional food culture.
Local Cultural Experiences
Participants can discover Finnish destinations through hosted activities.
These experiences introduce visitors to local traditions and attractions.
Meeting International Travelers
The program brings together selected participants from different backgrounds.
Therefore, guests can share their experiences and learn about other cultures.
Meeting Local Finnish Singles
Each dinner will include local Finnish participants.
The event encourages social interaction in a relaxed group setting.
However, the organizer does not promise romantic relationships or individual matches.
Do Participants Need a Finland Visa?
Visa requirements depend on the participant’s nationality, residence status, and travel circumstances.
Some travelers may enter Finland without a visa for a short visit.
Others may need to apply for a Schengen visa before traveling.
Applicants should check their requirements through official Finnish immigration and foreign affairs resources.
Official visa information:
https://um.fi/visa-to-visit-finland
Successful participants should also ask the organizer what documentation and support will be provided for their trip.
Do not assume that selection automatically guarantees a visa.
Tips for a Strong Application
Answer the Question Clearly
The video should directly explain what you would serve on a dinner date and why.
Avoid spending most of the video on unrelated personal information.
Choose a Meaningful Dish
A dish connected to family traditions, cultural identity, or a personal experience can make the answer more memorable.
However, applicants should remain genuine.
Explain Your Choice
The organizer asks for both the dish and the reason.
Therefore, explain what makes the meal special.
Keep the Video Natural
Speak clearly and confidently.
You do not need to create an expensive professional production.
Good lighting, understandable audio, and a clear answer can help communicate your idea.
Follow the Social Media Instructions
Use the correct hashtag and account tag.
Also make sure the organizer can access your video.
Submit Early
The application deadline is approaching.
Therefore, prepare and submit your entry well before the final hours.
Review the Official Terms
Check the campaign’s rules concerning age, travel, participation, and personal information.
This can help you avoid eligibility problems.
Is Finnish Dinner Date a Scholarship?
No.
The Finnish Dinner Date is a fully funded cultural travel campaign.
It does not provide a university degree, academic research placement, or traditional scholarship award.
The opportunity focuses on tourism, culinary experiences, and cultural connections.
However, it may appeal to readers interested in international travel and short cultural experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Finnish Dinner Date 2027 open?
Yes. Visit Finland has opened applications for the February 2027 experiences.
Is the trip fully funded?
Visit Finland advertises an all-expenses-paid four-day trip. Applicants should check the official terms for the detailed financial arrangements.
How many people will be selected?
The organizer will select 16 international participants, with eight assigned to each destination.
Which cities will host the experience?
The two destinations are Helsinki and Tampere.
Can international applicants apply?
The campaign invites international singles. Applicants should check the official eligibility and travel conditions.
Do I need a university degree?
The published application instructions do not require a university degree.
Do I need IELTS?
The public application instructions require an English-language video but do not specify an IELTS test.
Do I need to be single?
Yes. The campaign is designed for singles. Applicants should review the official definition and conditions.
Can I apply with a friend?
The campaign focuses on individual single applicants. Review the organizer’s FAQ for its rules on joint applications.
Can I choose Helsinki or Tampere?
The organizer describes the destination as a surprise revealed when participation is confirmed.
Is the dinner a private romantic date?
No. It is a group dinner involving international guests and local Finnish singles.
What is the application question?
Applicants must explain what they would serve on a dinner date and why.
Can I use an unlisted YouTube video?
Yes. Visit Finland accepts unlisted YouTube videos if the application includes an accessible link.
What is the application deadline?
10 November 2026 at 11:59 AM Finnish time.
When will the winners be announced?
The public announcement is scheduled for 1 December 2026.
When will participants travel?
The four-day experiences will take place between 9 and 19 February 2027.
Explore More International Cultural Opportunities
Readers interested in cultural exchange can explore the Japan Winter Culture Camp, which introduces participants to Japanese culture through an organized international experience.
Those seeking a more structured professional and cultural exchange may consider the CrossCulture Programme, which supports international professional learning and collaboration.
Meanwhile, students interested in international leadership development can review the Community Solutions Program.
These opportunities have different purposes and eligibility requirements. Therefore, applicants should compare them carefully before applying.
Final Thoughts
Finnish Dinner Date 2027 offers a distinctive opportunity for international singles to discover Finland through food, travel, and cultural experiences.
Visit Finland will select 16 international participants for two four-day hosted trips in February 2027.
The organizer advertises the experience as all-expenses-paid.
However, applicants should remember that this is a cultural tourism campaign rather than an academic scholarship.
To apply, candidates must record an English-language video, publish it on an accepted social media platform, and submit the official online form.
The deadline is 10 November 2026 at 11:59 AM Finnish time.
Interested applicants should review the official terms and complete both application steps before the deadline.
Official Sources
Visit Finland – Official Finnish Dinner Date Campaign:
https://www.visitfinland.com/en/have-some-finnish/
Official Application Form:
https://www.visitfinland.com/en/have-some-finnish/apply-dinner-date/
Visit Finland Official Press Release:
https://media.visitfinland.com/en/media-press-releases/finnish-dinner-date/
Finland Visa Information:
https://um.fi/visa-to-visit-finland
Disclaimer
Pathfinderly.com is an independent information website and is not affiliated with Visit Finland, Business Finland, or the Finnish Dinner Date campaign. Program eligibility, selection criteria, travel arrangements, funding conditions, dates, and application requirements may change. Applicants should verify all details through the official organizer’s website before applying. Pathfinderly.com does not manage applications, select participants, collect participation fees, or guarantee travel approval or selection.